Authorities said that during an argument between Tadeo and his girlfriend at her apartment, Tadeo was kicking and beating her when her dog came to her defense. Tadeo then kicked and stomped the dog before taking the pet outside where it was killed, authorities said. They said Tadeo then used the dog's body to beat the woman.

Tadeo is expected to make his plea in court Thursday morning before Fulton Superior Court Judge Shawn LaGrua. He faces a maximum of 20 years in prison on the aggravated assault charge, and up to five years in prison on the felony animal cruelty charge.